A Wonderful Life
By: SomeRandomPerson648
Chapter 55: New Resolutions
A/N: Hey Guys, and happy New Year! As I promised, I've decided to double my efforts in getting these newer chapters in before the end of my vacation break, though I will say that it only just ended as of posting. This is going to be the last chapter of downtime before the real action begins, and hopefully things go fairly smoothly from here. Anyway, enjoy!
Just hours before the battle of fate and time, the core members of the Dragon Team began to make preparations for the war ahead, regardless of what was happening in their lives
Hours flew by without a trace for Cell after having returned from Universe 10 and getting an earful from Beerus. The God was definitely not happy with how Cell compromised their operation, now he had to check back on the unstable Kai again in a few days to make sure nothing happened. A grand inconvenience for the 'busy' Destroyer
But, for the moment, the Bio-Weapon floated in place, motionless. It was high time that he had a moment to himself after the day he's had, as short as it was. He meditated in the middle of an arid wasteland, gathering his thoughts and feelings only after his actions were set and done
"I've been acting out more and more as of late. Or, I suppose I should say I've returned to my original personality." Cell observed to himself, taking into account the events of not just his two fights with two different Zamasus, but also his interactions with the Z team over all
It's been nearly two whole years since he last fought the team, killing nearly all of them while they were in their fused forms. Long since then he's 'settled' his standing with the team as a neutral, but unpredictable ally. Yet he himself wasn't quite settled with his past, not if the events of these past few days had anything to say. He's claimed revenge more than once by now, yet it never managed to truly satisfy him. Vegeta's life was in shambles now, and the Androids wanted to make peace with their former plaything. Yet Cell couldn't accept it, any of it
As usual, he was split between his two sides, one side wanted to throw everything he'd worked for away for the sake of finally satisfying his vengeance. But Cell no longer listened to that side of him, both because of rational thought and newfound experience. He now knew that there was no 'settling' with the past, nor was killing his former tormentors a third time going to be of use. In fact, every victory he's had for the sake of revenge only left him with a sense of emptiness afterwards, like it was never enough for him
But his other side, the one Cell was attempting to bring out, wanted to make peace. This side was tired of the endless suffering that he experienced, but was also tired of being unable to move past it all, to live away from the pain and suffering that he was well known for
And yet, he couldn't bring himself to move away from his experience that he once clung to so tightly, and still does. His memories of a painful fire burning within his body was etched deep into his very being. Just thinking of forgetting it all, throwing it to the side like it was nothing, like he was nothing, filled him with an unfathomable rage. A rage that never lets up, that never has since
But this side of Cell was only ever possible thanks to the efforts of 21, his most unlikely, and quite frankly only, friend. It was only due to his interest in 21 that he was able to transition into a life of relative peace, training her with every fighting skill he had. But now that initial interest evolved into a deep connection, one that he intended to keep. He's done things now that he never would've imagined himself doing before, training multiple pupils, distracting himself with human television, cooking even... and caring for another
21 was the only one that fully understood and accepted Cell, or at least was trying to accept him. Ever since he thoughtlessly saved her life, she's only ever been returning the favor tenfold by being there for him while no one else wanted to. She was the one and only reason why Cell was so tame and calm, more willing to accept the 'less morally incorrect' things in life
"But I'm not doing a good job at retaining that, any of it." He realized
Thus far, 21 has been the only one willing to accept him, which was something he more than appreciated. But for every new discovery she's made of him, their relationship has only been strained more and more. Before it was the act of killing, then was his past victories against the Z team, and now it was his actions towards Cell Black. Before he would've accepted these actions without a second thought, but now that they've affected his most important relationship he's had and ever will have, Cell now began to regret things he never had before too
Thus far, it was only 21 who made an effort to accept Cell for what he was, while he could only give her his word that he would do more to deserve her attention. But he hasn't made it any easier for her, quite the opposite actually. It was 21 who struggled to come to terms with Cell...when he should be the one to struggle, not her. He's only ever been able to give empty apologies for what he's done, which was, as Cell now realized, taking advantage of her kindness for the sake of his selfishness
"I haven't done anything but cause trouble for her while she's attempting to pick up my pieces." He thought
What were his problems were his to solve, but 21's selflessness frequently got in the way of that ideal, yet he never considered that it should be the efforts of both parties to fix the problem. He had only managed to stay in the same place while she went above and beyond to support him. It was his other side, his more volatile and vengeful side, that frequently threw wrenches in his own efforts to fix his problems. He tortured Cell Black without a second thought, he denied the twins of their resolutions, and he destroyed his standing with Zamasu, who had done nothing to deserve the treatment he received
It was up to Cell to restrain himself, not 21. She was here to support him, but he couldn't, and shouldn't, be the one to waste her goodwill. And he should start...by apologizing to her again
"I can't keep doing this, saying sorry rather than preventing the mistakes from happening." He settled. "I must hold myself accountable for my actions, for myself and for her."
With that, Cell felt more renewed than before, settling with his recently high rising feelings. It was still a bad habit of his to act before thinking, act out of impulse and pleasure rather than proper thought. Hopefully, Cell could complete his promises this time, rather than forget about them in the heat of the moment
When Cell finished meditating he stood still in place for many moments to process and properly sink in his new resolve, one that he hoped was more permanent this time. After he finished, he flew up into the sky and towards West City, it was around time that he gathered with the team to see about that trip to the future
"Hopefully...I settle my dispute with that false god once and for all, for the sake of all that I hold dear."
Deep within the unconscious mind of Bulma, there was a bright and vast world full of life and technology. It was a little dim at the moment, but that was mostly due to the stress she endured as of late. But at the center of the room was a figure of Bulma, laying in the floor helplessly
Unlike the souls of Cell and 21, this newer soul took the shape of a large mechanical room chalk full of panels, doors, tables, computers and much more. Technology was, after all, the one and only thing that Bulma knew as well as her own hand. She knew the ins, the outs, and everything in between when it came to things tech related. Thus, her mind was usually able to picture things in the form of a piece of tech, easily understandable, easy to pick apart and easy to learn
But not when it came to her most recent problem. Not when it came to her betrayal
In a sense, Bulma could theoretically understand the actions her son. Trunks only wanted to keep the peace, and he shouldered all of the guilt in not telling his own mother. He didn't want to lose his family. That, Bulma figured, was reason enough for her to forgive, but that still didn't remove how pissed she felt because of it
But Vegeta...was a different story
She just couldn't understand why he did what he did, why he would go against her word of not harming Cell. It just didn't click for her. The old, ex-villain Vegeta was the only thing that Bulma could blame it on, but she couldn't get why her loyal-husband Vegeta would do such a thing and lie about it. Understanding was the first step to her normal three step process, but she simply couldn't break that barrier. She didn't see why anyone would torture someone else for pleasure, or even how that could give pleasure. It was as though her image of Vegeta was split, broken
But it wasn't exactly the idea that Vegeta doubled back on 'old habits' in a way, but the sense of betrayal that came with. She trusted him enough to allow herself to be charmed by him, she slept with him countless times and is even MARRIED to him! It was one thing to know that the person you love was once someone else, that was something she long since put past her. But to break her trust like that, in a manner so horrible...wasn't forgivable
"I trusted him...and he took advantage of that. Now look what that's done." She spoke within her soul, hearing her voice echo from the white walls
When she turned to her left, Bulma noticed a strange white ball of light that floated in place. It would've been quite bizarre for her if she wasn't already aware of just who it was
"You're the soul that lives inside of 21 aren't you?" She asked the ball of light. "Do you like the place? Built it myself."
The soul responded by glowing a little brighter, flickering as though it were saying something. In a way, Bulma understood what it was saying, even if it wasn't actually speaking comprehensible words. It was sort of like an uncanny transmission through their minds
"Different from the others? Thanks, I'm glad you like it."
There was a long moment of awkward silence between the two as they sat completely still. Bulma was still hesitant to talk about her feelings, unsure of whether or not this stranger would like to hear them
But on the other hand, she really wanted to blow some steam, to release her pent up emotions. And, to be fair, the soul was already here for her, might as well talk to it
"Hey, thanks for being here..." Was the most she could say in the moment, trying to relieve the tension a little
More time passed, and nothing was said. Just pure silence
...
...
Silence
...
...
"So...can you tell me a bit about yourself." Bulma asked, and was met with confusion
"I mean, I don't really know anything about you. I just wanted to know you a little more, since you're inside me and all." She chuckled nervously, she couldn't just blurt out her emotions like that
The soul was able to respond with a mixture of uncertainty and clarity. In truth, the soul didn't understand or know where it came from, only that it was summoned by the machine that Dr. Gero created, with no memories of who or what it was before. But what it did know was that it enjoyed spending time within Android 21, and being with Cell and Giru
"Cell huh...I'd like to ask...what's he like when I'm not around? When it's just you and him."
The response was one of positive emotions. The soul described Cell as a deeply kind and caring person, one who let's his demons run loose on more than one occasion, often for mixed reasons
"So that's how he is." Bulma wondered. "I'm glad that at least he didn't turn out all bad."
Deep inside of her memories, she could still imagine that cute bug that she first met when he was born. So innocent, so curious. To think that it would grow to resent everything about her, and her friends too...
"...I don't think I'll ever be able to forgive Vegeta for what he's done, or 17 and 18. Cell could've turned out so differently if it weren't for him..."
There was another long pause between the two, before the soul thought of an honest response
Whether she can forgive him or not is something that she can only settle herself, not with anyone else. Because this wasn't truly about Cell's well being anymore, but Bulma's personal hurt
"I guess you're right...but has Cell forgiven them?"
The truth was that he hadn't, and most likely never will. But, with 21's help, he was trying to make an effort to move on. But both the soul and 21 would be there every step of the way. Even if, at times like the other day, it felt like no progress was made
"That's it...he's healing..." Bulma mused
Although she now knew that Cell was growing past the awful act, Bulma still had her personal score to settle with Vegeta. It wasn't just about Cell's well being, as selfish as it was, but it was about Vegeta's betrayal of trust...one that will take forever for Bulma to move past. Because unlike Goku, who seems to forgive everything from everyone, she was far less forgiving
However, there was also one final thought that crossed her mind, one that she felt was important enough to voice
"And what about me? Does he resent me?"
Strangely enough, the soul didn't have a proper answer for that. Cell never explicitly mentioned Bulma or anyone else beside 17, 18 or Vegeta. Not to say that he didn't hold resentment towards her, but that it might be lesser compared to his hatred for Vegeta and the Androids
"It's about time we get going. Wouldn't want to miss them go." Bulma stated. With the soul agreeing, both Bulma and the soul roused Bulma's body awake, with a new perspective
With that her feelings were settled. It wasn't about Cell anymore...it was about Bulma now, and what she felt
Elsewhere, within Bulma's personal Lab were the two Androids 16 and 21, deep in thought and analysis
While Bulma took a much needed break it was up to the two of them to understand the mechanics of the Time Machine. Fortunately, it's been smooth sailing for the two of them, so much so that they've even created comprehensive notes to go along with their research. Notes detailing the complex cpu, the incredible ability to input an intended timeline and destination, and much more. Every aspect of the machine was revolutionary in the least
Indeed, the two artificial geniuses were able to make various breakthroughs in their research, but something continued to bother 21...
"This machine uses the Chronal energy in this fuel to power itself and travel through time." 16 marked down on a piece of paper. "Using the fuel, the machine is able to create an energy equal to that of a black hole to travel in time."
"Wow, and to think all it takes is a few vials of that." 21 mused, motioning towards the canisters of blue liquid a few feet away
"It's a wonder how the Bulma of the far future was able to discover a secret to the universe." 16 mentioned. Even though Androids, Aliens and Gods were known in their worlds, Time Travel and the multiverse had to be the most impressive and frightening thing they've discovered so far
But on the subject of time travel, 21 began to wonder something as well
"Yeah...with this machine, one could fix any problem they've encountered...prevent so much from happening..."
"In a way, what you say is true, but the notion has been disproven." 16 began. "When one travels back in time, they only affect an alternative reality similar to their own. In essence, there is no true fix for the actions of the past."
"You're right...but if there was, just think of the things that would've changed by now." 21 wondered, letting her imagination go wild with thought. What if Frieza was never born? What if Gero never went evil? What if the Androids were never made?
What if Cell was never abused?
"I do not believe there is such a thing as a permanent fix." 16 stated
"Really? Why not?"
"Regardless of the Dragonballs and their ability to reverse death, our actions remain set in stone. Nothing can undo former and future decisions, other than conscious thought."
21 was surprised by the amount of thought 16 put into his answer, and yet it remained true. There was only so much the mystical Dragonballs could do, before the rest fell into the hands of the people, and their decisions
"The same goes for Cell, and for me." She thought, rounding back to the problem that irritated her
It was getting harder and harder for 21 to help Cell for every revelation she made. It was much easier to stand beside him when she still thought he was a kind stranger, who only cared about helping others. Instead, she now knew what he truly was and is, a hurt soul who was in desperate need for help, but also someone who was 'less keen on doing good' so to speak
Yet knowing her position didn't make it easier either. She was Cell's only friend, the only one he cherished aside from the soul that resided within her too. There was a certain pressure that came from being a person's sole pillar of support. It was up to her to support Cell, to raise his spirits and to help him improve
And that pressure was starting to build up
"Hey, 16...I wanted to ask something from you."
"Yes?"
"...How do you find the strength...to support others like you do?" She asked, which confused him
"I mean, when you helped Prestina settle into Earth, and when you helped me while I was trying to recover from my own problem...what gave you the strength to help?" She asked, making 16 think
The question of how or why 16 helped others never arose too often. Unlike a normal human being with emotions and illogical thought...16 was just doing what 'felt natural', what he was created to do, or at least what he was reprogrammed into achieving
"I cannot answer you're question in a way that would be of help. But...when I help others, there is a 'satisfaction' I receive in knowing that I was of use." He answered
"So your energy...lies in the progress that you've made with the people you've helped?" She asked, to which 16 nodded in agreement. "Huh, I didn't think about it like that. Would that be how I can help others better? By seeing how far they've come?"
"In a way, yes." 16 responded. "But there is one more thing...do not fault yourself for losing the ability to help. For sometimes, it is out of your capabilities to assist."
"Not to fault myself... I guess I should learn to do that, when I've been doing the best I can."
On the inside, 21 feared the day she couldn't help anyone, the day that she wouldn't be able to do anything for anyone. The day she was deemed useless...
"When the best is all I've got...then I just have to live with that." She thought. "If I'm doing all I can to help Cell, then I shouldn't stop now, not when he still needs me."
21's goodwill may have faltered, but until she knows she's done her part, she will not rest until her friend is healthy and happy
Nearby, the group of Majins, Saiyans and a Human returned to Capsule Corp, exhausted from their trip through the city
After their unexpected, but very much welcome, run in with each other the group continued to walk around the city. This time, with Trunks' input, the group was able to explore much more than they had before. The group was able to get into more interesting sights like a laser tag arena, bowling alley, karaoke and even a mall for a short period
But, with the time they've spent outside it was time that they returned to Capsule Corp and see off the travelers. Bulma said the other day that it would be around late afternoon that the fuel would be ready for use, and no one was planning on delaying their trip through time any longer
The Majin sisters barged into the backyard to find...absolutely no one around. The only point of interest was the Time Machine in full view
"Oh, looks like the rest of the team hasn't made it yet." Prestina declared whilst holding a small bag of clothes at hand. She and the rest of the group thought that the team was already gathered, but that was an incorrect assumption
"Then they wouldn't mind if we waited here for a while." Chocolata stated, taking a nearby foldout lawn chair and placing it for her to sit. Her sister followed along, falling into the chair tiredly
"Wow, this backyard is so spacious..." Mai gasped, amazed. She also flaunted a new red sweater shirt and black pants, making her look more pretty and elegant. But her hidden gun holster was still set beneath the shirt, she didn't go anywhere without at least one of them on her person
"Yeah, guess it's a lot easier to see when you're not hiding from us isn't it?" Trunks teased, but when he noticed Mai's deadpan face, he stopped chuckling
"sorry."
The Saiyan Broly was the last to walk into the backyard, now wearing a form fitting black sweater and grey sweatpants. While they were at the mall, the others took the opportunity to buy him much more comfortable clothes than the usual tight training pants and shirt. They were even able to buy a deodorant for his smelly green cloth, which he refused to take off
"Hey Broly, did you like the new clothes?" Chocolata asked, content with the way Broly looked. The clothes made him look more at ease overall, a pleasing sight for the rest of them
"I like them. Thank you." He thanked before laying down on the lush green grass and staring at the darkening sky, thinking of memories of a time long past
"I'm glad we at least got to get clothes for him, he looks better." Chocolata told her sister, who laid flat in her chair
"Yeah...that was pretty great." She sighed
"Hey, what's up? You look pretty drained."
"Well...I'm glad that we got to have fun, but I'm just a little tired from all the stress of trying to have a good time."
Throughout their tour of the city, Prestina took their earlier failures to heart. Although Trunks was able to step in and guide them in the right path, (while impressing Mai), the Majin was upset that their venture beforehand wasn't very fun
"Really? I thought you were a natural!" Chocolata declared
"What?"
"The way you took us from place to place and showed us what you knew was so fun! I've never seen you so active and exited before."
"R-really?!" Prestina exclaimed. She was sure that her tour was a complete disaster
"Yeah!" Chocolata reaffirmed. "You've gotten so used to this world that I'm kinda jealous of you. Even if it didn't go as planned, I was able to see so many new and exciting places!" She beamed, making her sister's heart flutter
Prestina stuttered in response to the compliments. That was beyond what she expected to hear from Chocolata, it was like she knew exactly what to say to make her happy. In a way, her words gave her pride in not only her experiences, but also in her ability to share more of what she loved, Earth
"He he he...thank you." She smiled, blushing profusely as she laid in her chair, now relaxed and a little proud
Just then, a small group of people flew in from the sky, Gohan, Adult Trunks, Future Gohan and Videl, who was carried by Present Gohan
"Hm? Oh, looks like the rest aren't here." Adult Trunks noted. Their small group wanted to fly early so that they could get to Capsule Corp on time, but it looked like they were very early
"Yep, but I'm sure they'll be here soon." Teen Trunks stated, before realizing his mistake. Mai didn't know any of them!
"Oh, this is my girlfriend Mai!" He introduced to the adults. "Mai, this is the me from the future, Trunks, this is my mom's friend Gohan, his self from the future, and his wife Videl."
"It's nice to meet you all, I've heard a lot about you." Mai greeted with a smile, trying her best to ignore the stranger parts of the introduction
"Wait, Mai?" Future Gohan said, both surprised and confused. The other adults soon realized the source of his confusion
"Trunks, you're dating Mai?" Videl asked quizzically. The young man only nodded in response, while Mai remained confused. Did they know her already?
"Wow, I didn't think I'd get to see her when she was young." Future Gohan stated before he addressed her. "Hey there, I'm Gohan. This might sound funny but, I'm friends with the you from the future!"
It took a long moment for the young girl to process that line, but when she did her calm demeanor shifted to one of incredible confusion
"Wait, you know the me from the future?!"
"Yeah. In fact, you and I are good friends too!" He informed, but was met with a suspicious glare
"If we're really friends then tell me something only I'd tell a friend." She tested, not believing something that sounded so made up. But then again, she was also side eying the adult form of Trunks and how similar he looked, as well as the two Gohans that looked almost like carbon copies save for the scar that distinguished one of them
"Hm...I know! In the future, you're always prepared, and you're kind of a gun nut." He said. "In fact, I bet you also have a secret gun stored under your shirt."
Sure enough, the teenage Mai dug into the back of her shirt to pull out a pistol that was neatly hidden just under her bra. It was a gun she's only told Trunks and her close allies about, so for a complete stranger to know about this meant that he was telling the truth
"Plus, you're a lot older than you look." He hinted, getting a few confused looks
"Wait, what do you mean by that?" Teen Trunks asked curiously
Mai sighed to herself, knowing what came next. She didn't exactly have a problem with revealing her true identity, other than the part where it could potentially put her relationship with Trunks at risk. But if they were already on to her, she might as well fess up
"Guess there's no going back from this, I have to tell the truth."
"Years ago, Emperor Pilaf used the Dragonballs to make himself and his close allies younger...including me." She revealed, shocking everyone around, minus Future Gohan. The Mai of the future long since revealed that information, even mentioning that she knew his father when he was smaller
"Hold on, so, how old are you?!" Teen Trunks asked
"Well...when we made the wish I was roughly 37 years old at the time, which would make me...43."
The news came as a shock to everyone around, more so to Teen Trunks than anyone. The entire time he assumed that Mai was around his age (16 or 18), but to think she was nearly three times as old as that was world shifting
"Wait...so that means that this whole time I've been dating someone three times my age..."
"Yeah...I'm very sorry for not telling you sooner. And I understand if that means-" She began, but was cut off by a reaction that no one could've expected
"Cool! I can't believe I'm dating someone three times my age!" Trunks reiterated with a renewed sense of vigor and excitement, one that also shocked everyone around
"Wait, he's okay with dating a 41 year old?!" Prestina asked herself, going as far as reading Trunks' mind to further understand him
But what she found out was that Trunks was actually ecstatic by the news. It was as though his charm was so powerful that he was able to land a date with someone much older than he was! A notion that only confused Prestina more
"Wait a minute, you're not mad that I lied?" Mai asked Trunks, who only looked proud of himself, in an odd sort of way
"Nope! I mean, you still look pretty for a 40 year old!"
Mai, while blushing, was on the verge of slapping the boy if it weren't the compliment she received. Was he really okay with dating her? She was sure that her true age would be what severed their relationship, but it didn't even faze him! In fact...she had the sneaking suspicion that he actually liked this new turn of events
"Sh-should we be concerned?" Videl asked herself, but she only got a sigh from the older Trunks
"I'm not sure...I guess? But, are you really as old as you say?" He asked Mai
"Well, I've lived for 41 years. But to be honest, my body changed the way I think and even act." She answered. "In a weird way, it's sort of like I'm still a teenager."
"So what I'm hearing is that we can still go to the movies on Saturday.~" Teen Trunks questioned in a strangely playful manner, raising more than a few eyebrows
"Then I guess that wouldn't change much," Present Gohan declared, "but that means you'll be taking care of our Trunks from here on, understand?"
"Hey! I'm mature for my age too you know!" Teen Trunks shot back, almost offended by the comment
"Yeah, I'll believe it when you're as tall as me." Adult Trunks teased in a more brotherly manner, rubbing his younger self's head
"You're okay with this too?" Videl reiterated
"To be honest, is there anyone but Bulma who can stop him?" Present Gohan answered, noticing that the Trunks in question had already ran away with his smart phone at hand
"So you really do know me... What am I like in the future?" She interrogated Future Gohan, but was met with a chuckle. This really was a younger Mai, so mature for her age
"Heh, in the future you're tough and strong when you need to be, but when you're around friends, you're nice and caring." Gohan mentioned. "But you're knowledge in battlefield tactics and military strategies makes you a valuable ally to have." Gohan described, making Mai blush a little. It was strange, hearing compliments for a version much older than her, but her teenage mind already got in the way
"...Can you tell me more..?" She asked with a slight blush
"Sure!" Future Gohan said, smiling with pure joy. If there was one thing he also didn't imagine himself doing, it was definitely talking to a young Mai
In the sidelines, Prestina took the opportunity to talk to the older Trunks, dying to know what he's been up to as of late
"Hey Trunks!"
"Oh, hey Prestina." He responded, a little taken off guard. "How was your day, you look like you had a great time."
"Oh you know, I just went out of the house and took my sis and Broly out for a tour of the city, no big deal." She played it off, but she was unable to hide her very clear content for her new achievement
"Hold on, you got to show them around? That's great, you've really come a long way." Trunks complimented, making Prestina blush, he was also someone who knew what to say
"Th-thanks!" She thanked before getting back to her original question. "And how'd it go with Gohan? Did you have fun?"
The former time traveler took a moment to look back at his former mentor, telling stories to a young Mai of her older self. Just as Gohan felt like he was dreaming, Trunks too felt like their encounter was his pure imagination. He long since talked to Prestina of how special Gohan was to him, so she, more than anyone, knew how important his past few days have been
"Yeah...I had a blast..." He answered with a joyful smile as he looked at his long lost teacher. In turn, Prestina smiled too, content in seeing her close friend happy. She could even feel the happiness radiating from him like a warm presence
"Hm, she sure is head over heels for him." Chocolata noted from a distance, watching her sister fawn over the man. It was also something she'd never seen her sister do before, guess the planet really does change people
Nearby, Cell made his unceremonious arrival to the yard by teleporting into view. Normally, this would be cause for alarm if he made a show of it. But since he didn't openly announce his presence, nor did he raise his power level to a noticeable extreme, the rest of the party continued their conversations with their backs turned
"This is usually the part where I make a scene." He noted, seeing that the others continued talking without noticing him, without paying attention to him. He was holding back the urge to shout his presence, to get everyone's attention forcibly. But he was serious when he told himself he'd change. Sure that didn't mean he couldn't be the center of attention anymore, but Cell felt like he had to start somewhere
Instead, he took a moment to observe everyone else and how...happy...they were. The smaller Trunks was boasting something to someone through his phone, Broly was laid out in the ground like a kid, Future Gohan was reminiscing memories with what appeared to be an unknown teenage girl, and Future Trunks and Prestina were close by, watching them together
The Bio-Weapon took a long moment to observe the Z team and how joyous they were in the moment. Each and every one of them were doing their own thing, something that seemed to fill them with life. It was quite the envious sight to behold, one that Cell rarely stopped to look at before
"How are they happier than I am?" He asked himself. A question that, for the most part, he knew the answer to but didn't want to admit to himself
It was that he had no goals, nothing to strive for anymore. He long since stopped aiming for higher sights and instead saw what was possible, and what wasn't
Elsewhere, 21 and 16 walked into the scene from the door. The two Androids, like he, took a moment to look at their surroundings and smile, noticing the lively atmosphere as well
Yet what contrasted their view was the lone Cell in the far background, watching and observing. Rather than throw himself into the conversation, he looked from a distance as he usually did before he left Capsule Corp. 16 could recognize this Cell as the older, much quieter Cell from years past, while 21 could only frown at the sight
"I can't remember the last time I've seen him so quiet." 21 whispered, careful not to alert Cell's sensitive ears
"He was always as quiet as this before you met him. He tended to stay away from the spotlight, observing everyone else having their fun. That was when he wasn't hiding in his room." 16 replied in an equally silent manner
"Really?"
"Before he knew freedom, he knew solace." 16 answered. "Though, with what we know now, there's a reason why he behaved in that manner. It was envy."
21 could understand what 16 meant, being so lonely had its downsides. She could recall feeling alone in the past, with no one but herself to comfort her. It was during the time Gero had left her after the death of their son that the same feeling of loneliness prevailed. Even with different circumstances, 21 could still relate to Cell on some degree, though not wholly
"It's hard being on your own...which is why I should be there with him." She affirmed before walking over to the Android, determined to make a difference, if at least partially
Cell seemed to ignore the approaching 21 until she stood beside him, watching the same sight he was. It wasn't that he was intentionally pushing her away, he just needed a moment to collect his thoughts. Eventually, it was he who broke the silence between them
"...I remember standing here before, back when I was still in their clutches." He began. "I could never grasp how they can pretend as though everything was perfect, like there was nothing that had or will harm them...like they've forgotten all of the pain and struggle they've gone through, the battles they've fought, or the people they've lost momentarily."
"Or maybe...I'm of the mindset that nothing can be forgotten, the past can never stay just there, in the past. But I suppose that also has to do with what I've been through, the struggles that never leave my mind." He explained before turning to 21, who was listening to every word he said
"I'm...not sure that I ever can forgive them for what they've done, nor can I forget it. It...haunts me to know that suffering was the only thing I was known for, the only thing I was. But, now, I want to do something new, something different."
Cell took a moment to look at 21 in the eyes with an incredible certainty she's never seen before. There was a finality in his eyes that was a deep mix of hope and despair. There was nothing left for him, no amount of happiness that could be attained from satisfying an old grudge. At least, not if he didn't do something about it
"I want to be happy, to move past everything that came before me. I want to forget about my revenge, and my long standing hatred for them. I want to be these things, but I still don't think I can be, not until I make the correct decisions. And for that...I must apologize for making your life harder. You've only been there for me, every step of the way, and yet my actions now and before have made it harder for you to accept me. So for that...I'm deeply sorry."
The female Android was shocked by the amount of heart and sorrow that came from Cell's apology. Yet she also couldn't understand why he needed to apologize. It was true that she's been getting doubts and mixed feelings as of late, but 21 felt as though he was taking responsibility for far too much that he should be
"I can't watch him take it all on his own." She thought with the same vigor she mustered up before
"Cell." She responded bluntly and firmly, getting his attention. "I'm sorry that I doubted your change before. However, I made a promise to be here for you, whenever you need me. So I'll be here every step of the way."
Silence fell between the two Androids as both parties considered the words of the other with care. Suddenly, Cell hugged 21 appreciatively taking her off guard
"...Thank you. Thank you so much, for everything you've done. This is more than anything I've done for you, but I'll accept your company regardless."
21 was content with Cell's response and appreciation. She was glad that her being with him had helped him in the way that she wanted to. Seeing his happiness in the moment filled her with a form of determination. She was now intent on seeing him smile, for it made her smile as well
"I see we're all gathered already, good." A voice said from high above
Everyone around looked up to see Beerus and Whis, floating into the scene. Close behind were Goku and Vegeta, who were gathered earlier by Beerus as well, since they were their most valuable assets
But there was something off about Vegeta, a very subtle change in his attitude. Whether it was the near untraceable red in his eyes or the incredibly unnoticeable slump in his posture, it was hard to notice anything different about him. This was due to him hiding himself well, but Cell, Adult Trunks and Prestina were the only ones able and capable of spotting the change
"He's been crying a lot hasn't he, that's the first time he's ever had red eyes." They unanimously thought as the four newcomers landed on the backyard
In turn, Vegeta could sense something off about the environment. When he looked at Videl, both Gohan's and even his own son, there was a faint judgement that he could feel from their eyes, even a slight distain from Videl
"They know as well, about what I've done." He guessed, quite accurately too. He recognized those looks from before, the ones he got from Trunks years before. It only made his mood drop more, but he did his best to hide it
But he also caught a glimpse of Cell and 21, and the way they looked at him. Surprisingly, Cell was emotionless in the way he looked, but it was 21 who gave off the judging stare. Even though Cell definitely knew about Vegeta's new standing with Bulma, there was nothing that gave the impression that he was happy, cocky, or even remotely glad at seeing him now
"With all of our fighters in one place I believe it's time to see who leaves and who stays." Whis declared
"I mean, the machine is pretty small," Future Gohan mentioned, "and if my dad and Vegeta are going, then that just leaves me to pilot the thing."
"Hm, think that'll be enough?" Beerus retorted. Black was definitely strong, and if Cell was to be used as a measuring stick, then he may have grown a lot since their last encounter
"Then maybe I can even the odds." Cell declared, stepping forward
"I'm sorry but you're too tall, you wouldn't be able to fit inside at all even if it was just you." Future Gohan countered
"Hmph, then maybe I'll have to do something about that."
Without hesitation, Cell began concentrating deeply in himself. With his Frost Demon genes, he could focus his body into becoming smaller, as though he were slipping into another form
Sure enough, through a little bit of yelling, Cell's size began to shrink drastically and painfully
Finally, Cell finished his transformation...now standing at around three feet in height rather than the looming seven feet from before. He looked practically the same save for his crown being reduced to two stubs to save on more height, and his wings and tail nearly disappearing
"At this size, I can surly fit in well enough." He said, though he slowly began to regret his decision as the eyes started to linger a bit too much
"I should've just blown my body to pieces and left myself a floating head instead...or not. That'd be not only more humiliating, but more worrying for 21." He thought, getting irritated by the stares he received
"Well? What are we waiting for?" He retorted, flying straight into the cockpit of the Time Machine with no hesitation, soon followed by the other warriors that were meant to come with
"Hold it!" A voice said from afar, interrupting the gathering
It was none other than Bulma, holding the two canisters of blue fuel that she grabbed earlier from the lab. Along with her was the soul, noticed only by Cell
"You're forgetting these." She said as she rushed over to the machine and inserted two fuel canisters into the machine, making it hum with life
"That should be enough for a round trip to the future." She informed as well. However, when she inevitably locked eyes with Vegeta, she forcibly turned her head to the side with a pout, making his heart drop a little more
"Now then, with that said you all better give it everything you've got, otherwise I'll go there myself and destroy Black and the planet you hear?" Beerus half encouraged half threatened, making the four passengers nod
"Good luck dad, Gohan! Give Cell Black the fight of his life!" Future Trunks yelled for encouragement, making Gohan smile and Vegeta smirk a little
"Sure will Trunks!/Understood." They responded
"Take care dad, and me!" Present Gohan yelled out, making them both smile and throw a thumbs up
"Be careful Cell!" 21 yelled out, receiving a smile from the Bio-Weapon
With the goodbyes out of the way, the cockpit of the machine closed shut and after the pressing of a few buttons the Time Machine began to glow and float in the air. Soon the machine blasted higher into the sky, glowing brighter and brighter until it suddenly disappeared in a flash of light, now gone from the current timeline
But as our heroes gathered their forces to drive away evil, their foe was in the midst of his own training
In a mountainous range there raged a great battle of epic proportions, the Hero of a different timeline, and the villain of many times. But strangely enough, it was not on an Earth connected to any of the known timelines, but instead, a different one
The Goku of this timeline was different, he wore yellow gi pants with black shoes and a light blue belt. But the strange part was that he had the power of Super Saiyan 4, covering his body in a pinkish-red fur and lengthening his black hair
He huffed tiredly, exhausted by his battle with what appeared to be Cell, but he acted differently than the one he knew. The Saiyan could only look around the sky and the land to try and find his opponent, but he just couldn't sense him
"Looking for me?"
Before the Saiyan could react a bright pink blade of ki thrusted through his heart, forcing his body to go limp and his form to dissipate, killing him instantly. Behind him was a glowing pink light that soon dissipated
But that wasn't the end of Goku's uses. Instead, the mysterious Cell Black used his tail to stab into the Saiyan and absorb him, wrinkling his body until it was nothing but ripped cloths. The fallen God smirked, feeling the power of a Super Saiyan 4 coursing through his veins, along with others that he's collected. He's fought a number of unique warriors through his trips down the timelines, so much so that he was getting better at fighting, much better
"This power, it grows the more I absorb, the more I learn!" Cell Black monologued before he cupped his hands to his sides and charged an iconic blue colored attack
"Kamehame...ha!!" He yelled, watching as a fraction of his power eviscerated the mountain range completely, leaving only a large and empty crater in its wake
As the fake Android stared at the destruction he caused, he couldn't help but smile. He's taken a lot of time to cultivate his new power into his own, gathering the techniques and abilities of others along the way. But it was not through normal training that he grew...but through pain and suffering!
Cell Black flexed his numb hand, watching as it vibrated in pain. His recent fight with Goku wasn't short of a test, one that came with a high price that he was more than willing to pay
"For every punch I take, for every blast I receive, I only grow stronger." He thought."This is what he meant, this is why he wanted me to suffer as he had...to wield this incredible power for myself!"
Black laughed as he touched his ring, using it to create a dark purple portal in front of him. For now, he sorely needed a rest after what he's endured. But once he recovered, he'll get to enjoy more power than he could've ever dreamed of!
"Count your days well, Cell. For I now know the secret to your power...and I will use it to complete my holy mission!"
